Shubman Gill Quashes Rift Rumours with Hardik Pandya: ‘Nothing but Love’
In a heartwarming gesture that has put an end to swirling speculations, Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill has publicly dismissed rumours of a rift with Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya. The controversy, which erupted after a viral video from the IPL 2025 Eliminator on May 31, had fans and pundits debating the nature of their relationship. But Gill’s recent social media post has brought clarity and calm to the narrative, reaffirming the bond between two of India’s brightest cricket stars.
The drama began during the pre-match toss of the high-stakes IPL 2025 Eliminator clash at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. A short video clip captured a moment where Pandya extended his hand for a handshake, only for Gill to seemingly walk past without acknowledging the gesture. Social media platforms exploded with reactions, with many interpreting the incident as a deliberate snub. The situation escalated when Gill, dismissed for a mere 1 run in the match, saw Pandya celebrating animatedly—further fuelling online speculation of underlying tension between the duo.
However, Gill, known for his calm demeanour both on and off the field, chose to address the issue directly. Late on May 31, the 25-year-old took to Instagram to post a series of cheerful photos alongside Pandya, captioning it with an unequivocal message: “Nothing but love. (Don’t believe everything you see on the internet) @hardikpandya93.” The post, which garnered thousands of likes and comments within hours, served as a powerful rebuttal to the rumours, highlighting the mutual respect and camaraderie shared between the two players.
This isn’t the first time that online narratives have exaggerated on-field interactions between cricketers. The IPL, with its intense rivalries and passionate fanbase, often sees such moments blown out of proportion. Gill and Pandya, who have previously played together for Gujarat Titans during the franchise’s title-winning campaign in 2022, share a history of teamwork and success. Pandya’s move to Mumbai Indians ahead of the 2024 season, followed by Gill taking over the captaincy of Titans, may have added layers of competitive edge to their dynamic, but it’s clear that personal respect remains intact.
Adding context to their bond, both players are integral to the Indian national team, with Gill being a cornerstone of the Test and ODI squads and Pandya a dynamic all-rounder across formats. Their on-field synergy, notably during India’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2024, where Pandya’s contribution with bat and ball complemented Gill’s elegant strokeplay, underscores their professional rapport. Off the field, Gill’s gesture serves as a reminder that not every competitive moment should be viewed through the lens of conflict.
As the IPL 2025 season progresses, this episode is a lesson in the power of direct communication over unchecked speculation. Shubman Gill’s mature response not only shuts down the rumour mill but also reinforces the spirit of sportsmanship that lies at the heart of cricket. For fans, it’s a reassuring sight to see two of India’s finest talents standing united, proving that beyond the boundary, there’s nothing but love.